Twice this year, thanks to tax-related questions for Mary Holste Design, I've wanted to talk to the IRS and ask some questions.
And I now emerge with some words of advice.
Never, never, NEVER, call the IRS. It will take forever and most likely you will never actually talk to the right person. The last time I called, I got bounced around to a million different departments, because no one could understand my question.
Instead, visit them! If you're in Tacoma, the IRS has an office in the Wells Fargo building. I've never had to wait to talk to a tax specialist; they pulled up the account, we went over questions, and they gave me a recommendation.
Surprisingly fast, and pretty helpful. So don't call. Check and see if they have an office near you. It will probably save you a lot of time and frustration on the phone.